Associate Buyer - Hardlines

Overview Associate Buyer J.C. Penney Company, Inc. Plano, Texas The Associate Buyer works with the Buyer or Sr. Buyer in identifying, executing and communicating long term and seasonal merchandise strategies through the development of assortment plans. The Associate Buyer will control merchandising and marketing messages that meet or exceed sales, profit and inventory plans for JCPenney Stores and JCP.com Primary Responsibilities Develop a competitive merchandise assortment plan that is customer focused and adjusts to sales plans based on competition, business needs, and fashion/industry trends Manage all aspects of assortment, product placement, order writing, marketing, pricing, signing, and markdowns Build strong product assortments with suppliers and negotiate pricing and inventory for assigned categories Utilize open-to-buy to manage business pre-season and in-season while working in tandem with Planner to maximize business opportunities Evaluate suppliers on new and existing products, including but not limited to quality, pricing, shipping time, customer demand and return on investment Integrate brand, sourcing, marketing and supply chain functions into the merchandising process to make business decisions Determine item lifecycles and exit strategies as well as identify items to maximize promotional and marketing strategies Attend all market weeks, store trips, trade shows and conferences Train and coach Assistant Buyers & Sr. Assistant Buyers Core Competencies & Accomplishments College degree or equivalent business experience Minimum 4 years merchandising experience; preferably with a large organization in a similar role Thorough knowledge of buying and operations gained through progressive buying experience Assortment optimization and Business Planning Supplier and Price Management Strong Decision Making ability and Negotiation Skills Adaptability/Perseverance Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook required What you get Eligible for bonus under the Management Incentive Plan. If eligible, we offer a competitive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, term life insurance, paid vacation/holidays*, and 401(k) with Company match. All associates are eligible for an associate discount on JCPenney merchandise. For paid holidays, associates who are eligible for paid vacation (MTO) are also eligible for eight paid holidays during the calendar year. *For paid vacation days, as well as eligibility requirements for other benefits, please visit About JCPenney JCPenney is the shopping destination for diverse, working American families. With inclusivity at its core, the Company’s product assortment meets customers’ everyday needs and helps them commemorate every special occasion with style, quality, and value. JCPenney offers a broad portfolio of fashion, apparel, home, beauty, and jewelry from national and private brands and provides personal services including salon, portrait and optical. The Company and its 50,000 associates worldwide serve customers where, when, and how they want to shop – from jcp.com to more than 650 stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. In 2024, JCPenney celebrates 122 years as an iconic American brand by continuing its legacy of connecting with customers through shopping and community engagement. Pay Range USD $69,000.00 - USD $115,000.00 /Yr. #J-18808-Ljbffr JCPenney